Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delectable and effortless dish that combines the rich, comforting flavors of garlic-infused cream sauce with succulent shrimp and tender pasta. This dish epitomizes the ease and convenience of slow cooking while delivering a meal that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.
The heart of this recipe lies in the slow cooker, which gently melds the flavors over several hours, ensuring that every ingredient absorbs the savory garlic and creamy sauce. As the pasta simmers, it absorbs the rich, flavorful broth and cream, becoming wonderfully tender and infused with the essence of the garlic and herbs.
The shrimp, added towards the end of the cooking process, become perfectly cooked—tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Their natural sweetness and delicate texture provide a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a layer of richness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
The dish is further elevated by the inclusion of diced tomatoes and a blend of Italian herbs, which introduce a subtle acidity and a touch of herbaceousness, balancing out the richness of the cream. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, from the creamy sauce and tender pasta to the succulent shrimp.
Garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta presents an elegant, yet simple meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The slow cooker allows for a hands-off cooking experience, making it an ideal choice for those who want a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Whether served as a cozy dinner for the family or as a hearty dish for entertaining, this recipe provides a delightful blend of creamy, garlicky goodness and tender shrimp, making it a beloved choice for anyone who appreciates easy, delicious comfort food.
Ingredients:
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (about 340g) pasta (such as penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and finely chopped onion until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the uncooked pasta to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the Shrimp:
- Place the peeled and deveined shrimp on top of the pasta mixture. Do not stir them in; they will cook on top and flavor the dish as they steam.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the shrimp are cooked through. Stir halfway through cooking if desired to ensure even cooking.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the pasta and shrimp are cooked, give the mixture a gentle stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips:
- Pasta Type: Choose a pasta that holds up well during slow cooking, such as penne or rotini. Avoid delicate pasta shapes that might overcook.
- Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque. Adding them towards the end of the cooking time can help prevent overcooking.
- Creaminess: For a richer sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a splash of milk or half-and-half.
- Pre-Cooking: If you prefer a more controlled texture for the pasta, you can cook the pasta separately and add it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish: Fresh herbs and extra Parmesan cheese enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a convenient and flavorful dish that brings together tender pasta, succulent shrimp, and a creamy garlic sauce with minimal fuss!
